Foul smell from AC

[sir21]

So it's time to start using the AC (at least for now) here in the PNW. We fired it up in the Mini Cooper for the first time and it starts to stink like dirty socks. I mean awful smell and quite strong. My first remedy was change the cabin filter (which was quite nasty) but it did little to help. The evaporator drain is not blocked either as I can see water dripping from it. The kicker is when the heater everything is fine.

Any other suggestions? Would it make any difference to drain and recharge the system?

(sorry about the non FX issue, but I know you guys won't mind)

 

[Logan]

It still may be from the evaporator tube it could still be partially plugged with mildew/mold and then backing up and causing the smell. Try backflushing it gently with water and bleach. then flush it several times with water. Any signs of mice or critters?

 

[blackfx]

A quick remedy would be to take Lysol spray and spray it into the intake vents for the air conditioning on the front of the car with the air running. Just let it work its way through the system.

 

[sir21]

Thanks lance ill try to do that. The tube is fairly narrow and seemed like it had a healthy flow.

Blackfx - thanks. Ill try that.